KJ Jackson’s 3 TD passes help Arkansas beat North Alabama 31-14 to end 10-game losing streak

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (AP) — Arkansas quarterback KJ Jackson orchestrated a 31-14 victory over North Alabama on Saturday, throwing three touchdown passes. Jackson, making his second career start, completed 24 of 35 passes for 267 yards and added 27 rushing yards. Each of the first three touchdown scores went to different receivers, arriving in the first quarter.

North Alabama's initial touchdown came late in the third quarter after a Sutton Smith fumble gifted the Lions possession in Razorbacks territory for the first time during the game. Destin Wade capitalized on the turnover, rushing for a 6-yard touchdown with 2:10 left in that quarter, making the score 21-7. Braylen Russell contributed 49 rushing yards on 17 carries, leading the Razorbacks' ground game with 49 yards on 17 carries.

North Alabama managed just 17 total yards in the first half and five first downs through the first three quarters. Wade completed 12 of his 23 passes for 113 yards, while Jackson threw three touchdowns - one to Ismael Cisse, Matt Adcock, and Jaden Platt. Chris Marshall led the Razorbacks with seven catches for 79 yards. Despite losing a fumble and committing an interception, Arkansas snapped a 10-game losing streak with the win.

North Alabama, appearing stronger than the team that won two games last year, will face Southeastern Louisiana on the road Saturday.